By Lola Rodríguez-Poyo
Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Cruzada por los Niños, CIS University’s non-profit organization, is extending a helping hand to Ukrainian refugee families seeking shelter and support in Spain. These two organizations have always worked in unison – driven by a commitment to assisting vulnerable populations during times of crisis, and in general.
Cruzada por los Niños, a respected non-profit organization known for its advocacy of children’s rights and social development, has been actively aiding Ukrainian refugee families since March 2022. Through their Reception and Integration of Ukrainian Refugees Program, they have welcomed five families comprised of 21 individuals, mostly children, providing them with vital assistance and support.
Cruzada por los Niños, along with members of the Spanish Airline Pilots Union (SEPLA), stepped forward to help displaced people right from the outset of the conflict. When the group of 21 arrived in Madrid, María Díaz de la Cebosa, CIS University and Cruzada por los Niños’ president, welcomed them and ensured they were provided for, especially focusing on the children’s well-being. María Díaz de la Cebosa plays a pivotal role in these efforts, guaranteeing that Cruzada por los Niños remains at the forefront of support for such families.
The families were initially accommodated in an apartment building in downtown Madrid, generously furnished and facilitated by the housing department at CIS University. Cruzada por los Niños continues to support these families by covering their monthly rental expenses, as well as covering utility bills and providing essential food supplies.
Beyond housing and basic necessities, Cruzada por los Niños supports families with navigating official procedures, such as obtaining identification documents and accessing government aid. Despite the challenges of finding employment, efforts are made to help individuals secure jobs, utilizing their skills and expertise, according to Nuria Sánchez, Assistant to the President.
Upon their arrival, the Ukrainian families took Spanish classes to learn the language and become more familiar with Spanish culture. Julia Serbina, International Recruitment Coordinator at CIS University, who is originally from Ukraine as well, was their instructor of Spanish. She played a fundamental role in supporting Ukrainian families and in helping them integrate into Spanish society.
“At the beginning, knowing how to focus the classes and establish emotional connections was crucial,” explained Serbina, who felt moved by “the suffering of such an impressive number of people affected by the war.”
One of the boys, Kirill, has found solace in guitar classes with CIS University professor Anthony Verrecchio, who is also Executive Director of the Robert F. Kennedy Foundation in Spain. Thanks to Verrecchio’s passion and support, Kirill continues to pursue his love for music, finding comfort amidst the upheaval. CIS University also facilitated Nikita, another Ukrainian student, in obtaining a bicycle, allowing him to easily explore his new surroundings.
The impact of Cruzada por los Niños extends beyond education. The organization strives to preserve Ukrainian culture and traditions. Recognizing the internal conflict experienced by the families, CIS University dedicated a day to painting Easter eggs, a cherished Ukrainian tradition.
Through the dedication of organizations like Cruzada por los Niños and CIS University, coupled with the unwavering efforts of individuals like María Díaz de la Cebosa, Nuria Sánchez, Julia Serbina, and Anthony Verrecchio, displaced Ukrainian families in Spain find comfort and support in their journey towards rebuilding their lives. The partnership between these organizations stands as a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of solidarity, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity.
